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'I am simply a 'book drunkard.' Books have the same irresistible temptation for me that liquor has for its devotee. I cannot withstand them.' L.M. Montgomery

'There are no faster or firmer friendships than those formed between people who love the same books.' Irving Stone

Wednesday, July 20, 2016

Mingo Falls

On the North Carolina side of the Smokies on the Qualla Cherokee Indian Reservation in Cherokee, NC are the Mingo Falls. A lovely short walk to it although quite steep, its mostly stairs. It's a very unique falls. Very steep and mostly flowing through and under moss and lichen. There were birds dipping and diving across towards the top, must have been feeding on bugs.

Solid mountain laurel

close up of the water under the lichen

We haven't had much rain so there wasn't a lot of water coming over the falls but you can checkout photos of it after lots of rain fall here.

On our way back over the Smokies we were lucky enough to catch some elk on the side of the road...

We were told in the evenings there are hundreds of elk come down to Cataloochee Valley, but that will have to wait for another day. It was late in the day and you can only do so much in one day. Next time.The elk have on monitoring collars. Its always so thrilling to see wildlife up close! Several rangers where there keeping people at a distance and traffic moving. The elk seemed oblivious to the humans gawking at them. Maybe someday I'll get some shots of black bear, very prolific in the Smokies.

What an unusual and amazing waterfall! I love your pictures, and I am reminded that there is nothing quite as refreshing as wading in a cold mountain stream. That brings back very happy memories of our vacations in your area with our kids. We visited Cataloochee a few years ago and enjoyed seeing the elk come out in the evening. Definitely worth the time to see.